Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Christian Knauss was born on April 7, 1998, to Greg and Paula Knauss of Corryton, Tennessee. From the very beginning, Ryan displayed an extraordinary strength and determination that would later define his life of service. Growing up alongside his older brother, Tyler, Ryan spent countless hours playing military-style games in the hills of Tennessee and later engaging in online war games with friends. These early experiences helped shape a deep and lasting passion for serving his country.

When Ryan entered Gibbs High School JROTC, he dedicated himself to preparing mentally and physically for a future in the military. Through intense workouts, strict discipline, and unwavering commitment, he transformed himself into a strong and focused young leader. His hard work earned him the prestigious Best Cadet of the Year award for 2015–2016. During his senior year, Ryan enlisted in the United States Army, determined to pursue his dream of becoming “boots on the ground.”

After graduating high school in May 2016, Ryan excelled through the Army’s rigorous training programs. Following Infantry training, Advanced Individual Training, and graduation from Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to the famed 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. From 2017 to 2018, Ryan deployed to Afghanistan as a gunner with Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. After returning home from a demanding nine-month deployment, Ryan remained driven to grow as both a soldier and a leader.

In 2019, Ryan successfully completed the challenging Psychological Operations Assessment and Selection Course, followed by the PSYOP Qualification Course. He was then assigned to the 9th Psychological Operations Battalion (Airborne) in August 2020—an impressive accomplishment for someone with only a few years of military experience. Motivated by his dedication to helping others, Ryan volunteered to deploy once again to Afghanistan in August 2021 in support of humanitarian evacuation operations in Kabul.

On August 26, 2021, at just 23 years old, Staff Sergeant Ryan Christian Knauss gave his life while serving his country during the terrorist attack at Abbey Gate outside Hamid Karzai International Airport. Alongside 12 fellow American service members and at least 170 civilians, Ryan was killed during the evacuation mission that unfolded amid the United States withdrawal from Afghanistan. His sacrifice, courage, and selfless service will never be forgotten.

In honor of Ryan and the many heroes who have given their lives in service to this nation, Respect and Remember Memorial Foundation, also known as R2Factor, was established to continue his legacy. The foundation supports high school JROTC and college ROTC cadets through merit scholarships, encourages and assists active-duty military personnel, and partners with organizations that provide recreational opportunities, events, and advocacy for veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star families.

Through remembrance, service, and community support, Ryan’s legacy continues to inspire others to live with courage, honor, and purpose.

Military Awards Received by Army SSG Ryan Christian Knauss: